Zak Edwards | Meet the team | Quality Care Group

Meet the team

Darren Pollard

Managing Director

Darren Pollard

Managing Director

As managing director of Quality Care Group, Darren has over 25 years' Insurance experience, over 20 years in the Care Industry. His expert knowledge of the Care Sector has placed QCG as one of the UK’s leading Care Home Insurance Brokers. Darren is also founder of our Charitable arm, Pollard's Promises. Darren is a very keen tennis player, an avid football fan and enjoys watching his three children playing tennis, football and cricket.

Lorrie Maslen

Operations Director

Lorrie Maslen

Operations Director

Lorrie is our Operations Director and a key member of the board, playing a strategic role in decision-making across the business. Lorrie oversees and manages the day to day operations of QCG, ensuring QCG are efficient and effective. Championing change and continuous improvement to meet the company goals and promoting our employees development. A dedicated supporter of Chestnut Tree House, she has completed several fundraising challenges for the charity, including the Great Wall of China Challenge in 2015, the Cambodia Challenge in 2017, and the Inca Trail in 2019.

Dom Taylor

Commercial Director

Dom Taylor

Commercial Director

Dom brings over 40 years’ management experience in both commercial and personal insurance. He is responsible for implementing QCG’s business plan and heads up our General Insurance division, unlocking and converting commercial business to meet our strategic growth plans. Dom can often be heard singing or whistling a tune from his vast repertoire, a sure sign that he’s happy in his work.

Patricia Gabrielli

Financial Controller

Patricia Gabrielli

Financial Controller

Patricia has been working in the Care Home Insurance Sector since 2002. She is responsible for all the accounting needs of QCG and has been instrumental in the success and growth of the company. Patricia is an avid tennis player and is a regular 1st team tennis player for Hove Park Tennis Club.

Emily Whiting

Associate Director

Emily Whiting

Associate Director

Emily began working in insurance in 2008 and has since built a wealth of experience across customer service, management, and sales roles. She completed her Cert CII qualification a few years ago and is now studying towards her Insurance Diploma. Having previously worked at QCG, Emily is delighted to have returned and now leads as Head of Strategy, working closely with teams across the business to drive growth, innovation, and customer service excellence. Alongside her career in insurance, Emily is also a qualified primary school teacher and has completed a Law Degree with the Open University. Outside of work, she enjoys balancing exercise and a busy social life while looking after her two children.

Zak Edwards

Associate Director

Zak Edwards

Associate Director

Zak is responsible for managing the relationships of all Corporate and Group clients, whether that be dealing with claims or general queries out of hours. Zak also focuses on new business group acquisitions. A keen traveller and sports fanatic, Zak cycles along Brighton seafront daily on his commute to our office.

Lauren Early

Associate Director

Lauren Early

Associate Director

With almost 12 years' experience within the domiciliary care sector. Lauren is currently Head of Existing Business, responsible for Care and General Insurance. Lauren also heads up our charitable arm, Pollard's Promises. Lauren has her hands full outside of work being Mum.

Jade Concannon

Associate Director

Jade Concannon

Associate Director

Jade has worked in the insurance industry since 2004 and has vast experience across many personal lines and commercial insurances, holding the Diploma CII qualification. Using her knowledge of the care sector, Jade has worked in several different roles within the group including managing teams looking after our existing care clients as well as our general insurance arm. More recently she managed our risk management offering by identifying the trends where the care sector is most vulnerable. Jade who is now putting the processes in place to ensure that QCG claim service is the best it can be. She will then recruit a team of like-minded individuals to implement this with the central ethos of putting our customers claims needs as a top priority. Outside of the day job, when she isn’t looking after her dachshund, Declan, Jade is a fitness and Yoga instructor, teaching and attending numerous classes each week.

Sarah Evans

Head of Business Support

Sarah Evans

Head of Business Support

As Head of Business Support, Sarah leads the coordination of all administrative services at QCG, ensuring her team delivers timely and accurate policy documentation to clients and so much more. With 18 years at the company, she brings deep expertise and dedication. Both in and outside of work, Sarah is passionate about walking and founded a local walking club, where she takes walkers off along the seafront on her lunch breaks. She's also a talented baker, known for her chocolate cookies and lemon drizzle cake.

Chris Lacey

Head of Finance

Chris Lacey

Head of Finance

Chris joined QCG in Sep 2021 having previously worked in financial services. Chris looks after the day to day running of the Finance department, ensuring debt is collected on time and insurers are paid in a timely manner. Chris is a keen skier and runner, and worked in many countries across Europe while in his 20s. He leads a more quiet life now, having relocated in 2017 to Brighton, where he also volunteers with Cubs.

Alan Ford

Head of Marketing

Alan Ford

Head of Marketing

As Marketing Lead at QCG, Alan brings strategic vision and hands-on leadership to the company's marketing function. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM) and Chartered Marketer, he leads a dedicated team in delivering communications that bridge all departments, ensuring both clients and colleagues receive clear, compelling messaging aligned with QCG's strategic goals. Alan's approach centers on crafting high-quality, bespoke marketing communications that resonate with diverse audiences. His commitment extends beyond campaigns, he's invested in building enduring relationships that strengthen the business from the inside out. Outside the Office Sport has been a constant thread throughout Alan's life. A lifelong Arsenal supporter, he was introduced to the Gunners at just four years old, standing on the North Bank alongside his father. When his footballing aspirations didn't quite match his passion for the game, he pivoted to rugby and martial arts, eventually specialising in Tae Kwon Do. These days, Alan balances his competitive spirit with life's simpler pleasures, good food, great company at his local pub and quality time with his three children.

Carli Chick

Operations Manager

Carli Chick

Operations Manager

As Operations Manager, Carli is responsible for operations at Quality Care Group. Carli is a health and fitness fanatic, driving herself to achieve excellence. This same drive is seen in the management and consequent achievements of her team.

Josh Pollard

New Business Manager

Josh Pollard

New Business Manager

Josh is the New Business Manager at Quality Care Group, focusing on using his extensive care sector knowledge to build strong client relationships and drive new growth initiatives. A skilled tennis player at the county level, Josh balances his professional and athletic pursuits with a deep commitment to giving back, proudly volunteering in the charity sector.

Simon van Os

Business Development Manager

Simon van Os

Business Development Manager

Simon van Os brings with him over 25 years’ experience in customer success, service delivery and product management across a variety of industries. With a strong passion for customer excellence, relationship building and business growth, Simon has successfully assisted many clients with business improvement, scalable growth initiatives and strategic problem solving. Before moving into business development, he spent time leading customer solutions in the care sector, so he has been on the Client’s side of the table. He understands the pressures of CQC compliance, rising costs, and finding the right support partners you can actually trust. At QCG, he now helps care providers not just reduce risk through insurance, but improve the way they run; whether that’s through smarter staff cover, cost efficiency, compliance support, or tailored business solutions. His goal is to bring sector insight to the conversation, not just sell a product. Outside of work, Simon’s other loves are his family, his music and his Labrador ‘Snoop’.

Francesca Jeffrey

Business Solutions Manager

Francesca Jeffrey

Business Solutions Manager

Francesca has 20 years experience in insurance, covering all aspects of commercial and personal lines. She has worked in compliance auditing on mortgage and life policies working closely with IFA’s and mortgage advisers. Francesca will be bringing this knowledge and experience to the Business Solutions Team. In her spare time she likes to be outdoors and active with her two children.

Ben Woolger

Business Support Assistant Manager

Ben Woolger

Business Support Assistant Manager

Ben brings his organisational skills to his role of supplying full administrative support to the New Business, Corporate and Business Development teams. Smartly dressed in the office, Ben turns into something of a “Bear Grylls” outside of the office enjoying camping, walking and BBQs.

Josh McDonald

Head of Recruitment

Josh McDonald

Head of Recruitment

Josh McDonald is a seasoned recruitment leader with over a decade of specialised experience in the health, social care, and social housing sectors. As the Head of Recruitment at Quality Care Group, he drives strategic talent acquisition, partnering with leaders to identify professionals who excel in delivering compassionate, quality care.

Errol Archer

Health & Social Care Law Expert

Errol Archer

Health & Social Care Law Expert

Errol Archer is a health and social care law expert. He deals with the Care Quality Commission and Health and Safety Executive, amongst other regulators.

Peter Bryant

Energy Analyst

Peter Bryant

Energy Analyst

Peter is a seasoned energy sector specialist with over 16 years of experience in brokerage and consultancy services. Trained by Siemens, Peter brings a unique blend of technical expertise and industry knowledge to his role at Quality Care Group. His career has been marked by a consistent focus on providing exceptional energy solutions, particularly within the care home sector. Peter's experience spans various roles, from partnership management at Shell Energy to consulting on green energy initiatives and developing energy management programs for large businesses. Peter sits on Ofgem's TPI Working Panel, one of only 5% of trusted TPIs, bringing first-hand regulatory insight to every client review. Driven by a passion for excellence, Peter delivers competitive energy sourcing and market trend management but also tailored solutions that optimise energy delivery to care home accounts.

Nicholas Gordon

Assistant New Business Manager

Nicholas Gordon

Assistant New Business Manager

I began my career in e-commerce, managing motorcycle parts, and took a bold step by moving to Bangkok for two years to drive growth and operational excellence for our franchise there. After returning, I spent two transformative years at Tesla, followed by a role in the EV charging sector. Most recently, I’ve been working closely with a small business to launch a luxury bespoke furniture store in central Brighton, combining creativity and strategy to achieve success. On a personal note, I’m an avid motorcyclist, a proud supporter of Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club and a lover of live music and great food. At home, I share my life with two wonderful rescue animals who keep things lively.

George Skinner

Existing Business Assistant Manager

George Skinner

Existing Business Assistant Manager

George deals with commercial account handling, responsible for providing exceptional service to our prestigious client base, ensuring the cover for our clients is tailored to their individual needs. George enjoys spending his weekends golfing, playing rugby and socialising at the pub with his friends.

Luke Cox

Claims Team Leader

Luke Cox

Claims Team Leader

Luke brings extensive claims experience to his role as Claims Team Leader at Quality Care Group. His career has spanned positions as a Technical Claims Handler and Major Loss Events Claims Handler in New Zealand, as well as a Domestic and Commercial Loss Adjuster in the London area. With a broad background across complex and high-value claims, Luke provides valuable expertise and leadership to the team. Outside of work, Luke is a passionate guitarist and record collector. When he's not immersed in music, you'll often find him down at Brighton Beach with his dachshund, Bones.

Cameron Montrose

Business Development Team Leader

Cameron Montrose

Business Development Team Leader

Cameron brings strong communication skills to his role at Quality Care Group and a natural ability to adapt to different social settings. He approaches every opportunity with commitment and consistently gives his best in everything he does. Outside of work, Cameron is highly focused on fitness, spending his time running, training at the gym, playing football and boxing. He takes a disciplined approach to health, follows a clean diet and regularly reads books on mental and physical wellbeing. Known for his kindness and empathy, Cameron genuinely cares about the needs of others and often puts people first. He enjoys meeting new people, staying connected with family and friends and building lasting relationships. A passionate Arsenal supporter, Cameron also has a strong interest in music, with a particular love for house music and Spanish guitar.

Ben Simmonds

Broking & Claims Specialist

Ben Simmonds

Broking & Claims Specialist

Ben worked as a claim's handler in his home country of New Zealand before moving to the UK and joined the claims team at Quality Care Group as a Corporate Claims Handler, further to being promoted into his current role as Broking & Claims Specialist, In his spare time Ben enjoys socialising and supporting his favourite football team, Liverpool.

Lucy Robson

Senior New Business Executive

Lucy Robson

Senior New Business Executive

Lucy has worked in insurance for over 7 years, achieving her CII accreditation & Insurance Practitioner apprenticeship when she was 19. Lucy works in the New Business team, dealing with our vast portfolio of Commercial Insurance products. Lucy is Neurodivergent and proud to be part of our Neurodiversity Team at QCG, promoting inclusion & diversity within the company. She enjoys festivals in the summer, baking for her friends & Family and travelling to new countries when she can!

Donna Attridge

Senior Account Executive

Donna Attridge

Senior Account Executive

Donna has worked within the Insurance Industry for 10 years with a background in claims and Motor Insurance. Donna started with Quality Care Group as a Renewals Account Handler building relationships with our clients, through her work and professional development, she is currently Senior Account Executive continuing to ensure our customers experience is flawless. In her free time, she enjoys dog walks, yoga, gardening and spending time with friends and family.

Stephen Taylor

Senior Business Development Executive

Stephen Taylor

Senior Business Development Executive

I am a business development professional, from a background that includes- private medical insurance, variety of commercial lines and software as a service sales. I enjoy getting involved with projects, contributing to business growth and bringing the worlds of insurance and business together. I have a passion for food and travel, recreating my favourite dishes from around the world. Recently moved to Hove with my spouse, and really embracing the seaside lifestyle. Even the pesky seagulls haven’t phased me, yet.

Ruth Florence

Senior Claims Handler

Ruth Florence

Senior Claims Handler

Ruth is a politics graduate that specialised in a variety of political systems. She has a great deal of experience in customer service and utilises these skills at Quality Care Group in her role, to really understand clients needs and provide them with the very best experience possible. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, but also enjoy debating or playing video games.

Alex Ward

Data Analyst

Alex Ward

Data Analyst

Alex joined QCG in 2018 and is now the company’s Data Analyst, working across departments to co-ordinate internal processes, develop new software tools and maintain our hardware and networking. An active member of Shoreham Rowing Club and a keen aviation enthusiast, Alex learned to fly with the RAF youth wing before driving a car. In his spare time, he also enjoys projects with audio and graphic editing software, in addition to 3D product design.

Doug Walsh

Training & Development Executive

Doug Walsh

Training & Development Executive

With over a decade of insurance experience spanning diverse sectors, from taxi services to care provision, Doug has cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the products QCG offers and the genuine needs of their clients. At QCG, he's dedicated to fostering team development through enhanced knowledge and confidence, ensuring the company consistently delivers exceptional service. Doug's background in psychology, particularly Transactional Analysis, informs his training methodology as he works to unlock each team member's potential. When he's not in the office, you'll find Doug cooking, reading, playing cello in a string quartet, or discovering all that Brighton has to offer.

Jack Collins

Corporate Account Executive

Jack Collins

Corporate Account Executive

Jack has extensive experience in delivering a high-quality service to clients in a variety of industries. He has a strong financial background and has more recently focussed on the commercial aspect of finance. He joined QCG as a commercial account handler, but was soon promoted into his current role as Corporate Account Handler. He enjoys many activities, such as snooker, darts, poker and surfing wherever he can.

Noreen Javaid

Digital Marketing Executive

Noreen Javaid

Digital Marketing Executive

Demianna George

Executive Assistant

Demianna George

Executive Assistant

As the Executive Assistant to Darren, our Managing Director, I provide dedicated 1:1 support to ensure smooth operations and efficient communication within all aspects of Darren's work. With a passion for travel, health and fitness, I bring energy and organisation to my role, striving to create a productive and positive work environment.

Harry Tweddle

Commercial Account Handler

Harry Tweddle

Commercial Account Handler

Harry Tweedle is a Commercial Account Handler in the Existing Business team at Quality Care Group. With years of experience in insurance broking, he has worked across both existing and new business, handling a wide range of general insurance policies. His expertise lies in providing tailored insurance solutions and delivering excellent service to clients. Outside of work, Harry enjoys staying active by going to the gym and is a passionate sports fan. He’s a dedicated West Ham supporter and a big fan of boxing and UFC.

Tom Bagwell

Commercial Account Handler

Tom Bagwell

Commercial Account Handler

Tom holds a degree in Sports Science from Bournemouth University. He began his insurance career as a New Business Underwriter at Ansvar, specialising in niche areas such as churches and charities. Now part of the Quality Care Group team, he brings a keen eye for detail with a customer-focused approach to his role as Commercial Account Handler. Outside of work, Tom is an avid sports enthusiast with a lifelong passion for Chelsea. He enjoys rugby, boxing, cricket, gym training and running. He has completed several half marathons with a full marathon firmly on his bucket list.

Josh Edlin

Commercial Account Handler

Josh Edlin

Commercial Account Handler

Josh began his career in the insurance industry in 2021 and has since gained extensive experience in commercial insurance products. Holding the Cert CII qualification, he is confident in the advice he provides and has a strong track record of working directly with clients to meet their insurance needs. Outside of work, Josh enjoys boxing, hitting the gym, and socialising with friends at the pub.

Georgia Mercer

Commercial Account Handler

Georgia Mercer

Commercial Account Handler

Georgia Mercer is a versatile professional who, armed with a BSc in Zoology, transitioned seamlessly from sales and sales management in construction to her current role as a Commercial Account Handler at Quality Care Group. She brings a passion for protection to the insurance sector, demonstrating finesse and dedication in managing commercial accounts. Outside of work, Georgia is a spirited runner, a talented singer, and a social butterfly who enjoys unwinding at the local pub.

Allison Rundle

Finance Assistant

Allison Rundle

Finance Assistant

Allison has 20 years of finance and banking experience and joined QCG to support the accounts department. In her spare time, she enjoys watching Nordic dramas, gardening and experiencing new cuisines.

Dean Wallace

Business Solutions Executive

Dean Wallace

Business Solutions Executive

With more than two decades in customer service and sales, Dean is passionate about helping clients find the right solutions to support their business. He prides himself on building genuine relationships and taking the time to understand what really matters to the people he works with. Away from work, Dean enjoys photography and spending time outdoors. He is also an active grassroots football coach, dedicating the last five years to coaching his son’s team and supporting young players in his community.

Melissa Solomon

Business Solutions Support

Melissa Solomon

Business Solutions Support

Melissa Solomon Business Solutions Support Melissa graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Natural Sciences, specialising in Environmental Biology. She brings a broad range of experience from her time at The Body Shop, where she worked across HR plus Property, supporting international recruitment processes, the employee lifecycle plus stakeholder management. She also played a key role in large scale projects including the UK lease portfolio transfer, providing financial validation plus coordinating approvals alongside wider project delivery. Outside of work Melissa enjoys painting, gardening, listening to music plus getting out for walks with her three sausage dogs.

Lauryl Rencontre

Wishes & Events Coordinator - Pollard's Promises

Lauryl Rencontre

Wishes & Events Coordinator - Pollard's Promises

Lauryl works at the heart of Pollard’s Promises, the charitable arm of Quality Care Group, where she leads on the coordination and delivery of wishes for carers, care teams, and care recipients across the UK. As Wishes and Events Coordinator, she turns moments of appreciation and joy into reality, recognising the vital work of those in the care sector. Lauryl also organises events that bring communities together, raise awareness, and support the mission of Pollard’s Promises. Her compassion, energy, and attention to detail ensure every promise we deliver makes a meaningful impact.

Lucy Sandle